2023 Acura TLX Review, Pricing, and Specs

Base

$41,045

Technology

$44,745

A-Spec

$47,495

first

$51,945

$56,445

Type S PMC

$63,995

The 355-hp Type S tops the TLX lineup in both performance and price. While its former nature makes it our favorite, its price only adds to its appeal, especially compared to BMW M340i. Prices for the all-wheel drive Bimmer start a bit higher than the Type S, but the base balloons to over $56k when fully equipped. The S-type is cheaper and comes standard with luxuries such as adaptive dampers, leather upholstery and the ELS premium audio system. We’d also opt for the $800 Performance package that brings unique 20-inch wheels on summer tires for maximum cornering grip and stopping power.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

The regular TLX has a 272 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Acura’s all-wheel drive system, which is called SH-AWD and shuffles power between the wheels to improve agility and traction, is optional. Unfortunately, our test car the curb weight of two tons reduces its acceleration time. Although it hits 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, it’s slower than similar setups in this segment and even the less powerful, albeit lighter, The Honda Accord 2.0T we tested. Still, the TLX’s great chassis tuning makes it very entertaining to drive and proves that Acura can still build sports sedans. This sentiment is especially true of the higher-performance Type S, which has a 355-hp turbo 3.0-liter V-6, a responsive 10-speed auto, SH-AWD, and a sportier suspension setup. Unlike the regular TLX, it’s available with stickier summer tires on lighter 20-inch wheels. Our first drive showing off its stout engine, engaging steering, great body control and powerful brakes. However, it has a firm ride that doesn’t mask road imperfections, and it doesn’t feel as nimble as shorter, sporty rivals like the Audi S4.

Real World Fuel Economy and MPG

The front-drive TLX is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Models equipped with SH-AWD see those numbers drop to 21 mpg city and 29 highway. The TLX Type S is rated at up to 19 mpg city and 25 highway. The four-cylinder, all-wheel-drive model we drove on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, getting 30 mpg. For more information on fuel economy, visit the website EPA website.

Interior, Comfort and Cargo

Inside, the TLX has an expressive design that highlights its sporty character. These include attractive analog gauges and a prominent rotary drive mode selector in the center of the dashboard. Bolstered by Acura’s excellent build quality, the TLX also offers nicer cabin materials than its predecessor, including open-pore wood and natural aluminum. While the sedan feels spacious from side to side, the back seat feels smaller than some competitors in this class. However, its highly adjustable front seats and the driver reward excellent forward visibility. The TLX also offers a variety of interior colors, different leather upholstery, and desirable features, including a large 10.5-inch head-up display and customizable ambient lighting settings each named after iconic driving destinations and racetracks, such as “Pacific Coast” and “Suzuka.”

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every TLX features a 10.2-inch infotainment system controlled primarily via a touchpad on the center console. Some functions can also be manipulated via steering wheel buttons and physical controls next to the touchpad. There is also a padded rest for your wrist under the touchpad which makes it more comfortable to operate. The TLX comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Those who want the ultimate ELS sound system and wireless charging pad should opt for the Advance package.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Every TLX comes standard with AcuraWatch, which covers the range driver assistance technology. The sedan also has new equipment, such as traffic sign recognition and a driver awareness monitor. For more information on TLX crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website.

• Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert are available

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Acura provides one of the longer powertrain warranties on the market, and its limited warranty is in line with most of the TLX’s competitors, such as Alfa Romeo Giulia and Mercedes C class.

• The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles
• Free scheduled maintenance covered for two years or 24,000 miles.

More Features and Specifications